Kent Drug and Alcohol Action Team

National Drugs Helpline 0800 77 66 00



GHB (Gammahydroxybutyrate)

(Liquid Ecstasy, Scoop, Somatomax)

GHB is a Class C drug, and is a sedative.

What does it look like?

It is a liquid drug supplied in bottles or capsules. It has no smell or colour, and could be compared to salty water in look and in taste.

How is it taken?

Is swallowed; one spoonful is a dose.

What effects does it have?

When taken:

A dose of GHB slows down your movements and reactions, so you would feel sluggish but happy, warm and sensual. Your sexual inhibitions would be lowered and you could be prone to sexual encounters against your wishes. GHB has been linked to drug assisted sexual assaults.

A higher dose would result in you feeling sleepy, confused, nauseous, stiff, or sick (you may vomit). You may feel your muscles go numb and suffer spasms or convulsions.

A much higher dose can cause a fit, coma or severe breathing problems.

Taken with alcohol or other drugs, the effects could be much worse. They could result in a fatal overdose.

Longer term:

You could develop tolerance to the drug, and become physically and psychologically dependent on it.